In a scorching hot day that marked the end of the school children's summer holiday, the annual Rotary Ponteland Duck Race in Ponteland Park saw record crowds turn out on Sunday (September 3).

This year, tickets for the event sold out for the first time ever.

Peter Tincombe, the president of Rotary Ponteland, said: "The response from the public was fantastic and it was wonderful to see so many happy faces ”

The success of the event was made possible with the support of Newcastle Airport, Newcastle Building Society, and nearly 30 local businesses that either sponsored a boat in the business boat race, donated raffle prizes, or offered their services free of charge.

The event served a charitable purpose, with Children North East being the main beneficiary.

This organisation provides essential, life-changing services and support to babies, children, and young families in the North East region.